Page 202 - The Memory Program How to Prevent Memory Loss and Enhance Memory Power

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Step 1. Identifying and treating specific, reversible causes of
memory loss;
Step 2. General measures to protect against memory loss
that include a healthy diet, physical exercise, and
memory training;
Step 3. Medication strategies to maintain and improve your
memory.

I will first describe the Memory Program in its entirety, and then individualize the program by
focusing on subcategories of people, based on whether you have a sound memory or mild memory
loss, as well as by gender and age group.

Step 1: Identify Reversible Causes of Memory Loss

I have started with reversible causes of memory loss for a very important reason. If you fall within
the category of people with mild memory loss, identifying and treating these reversible causes, where
a cure is often possible, should be your first step. A large minority of people with mild memory loss
suffer from reversible causes, and it is absolutely essential to fix these causes first.

The following table outlines the most common reversible causes of memory loss, and describes
typical symptoms and the main treatment approaches for the specific disorder. To avoid clutter, less
common causes like drug abuse and infections are not listed in the table. The symptoms of many of
these reversible causes are not restricted to memory loss but also include general cognitive and
intellectual decline.

If you suffer from mild memory loss and think you may be suffering from a potentially reversible
cause:

1. Carefully read the relevant chapter earlier in this book and institute the recommended
measures.
2. If you're not sure about whether you have a reversible cause, go see your doctor. Diagnosis and
treatment of some reversible causes require physician consultation.

Reversible Causes and Age-Related Memory Loss: The Domino Effect

Returning to an earlier point, some people develop mild memory loss for the first time in their sixties
and seventies. Many of these people